It’s hard not to get caught up in the beautiful images of brides and bouquets. It’s true! You can become addicted to bridal magazines, what’s not to love beautiful glossy pages and looking at the always perfect bride to be who never has blemish, and the bridesmaids who are all a size two and the groom is who picture perfect. Let’s not forget about the over the top decor that only the rich and famous can afford.

Don’t get us wrong we love bridal magazines, they are great resources of ideas and trends. But it’s important to remember that the weddings they show are not always connected to reality. Remember planning a wedding is a multi-billion-dollar industry, and they are wanting to sell sell sell! We have found that brides feel more free in planning their wedding if they’re free from excess want. Unless we all learn to control, and not be controlled by our desires, we’ll never be able to experience the real joy of the experience. So take a break from the bridal magazines, and websites especially if you have already nailed down the big items such as dress, decor, and cake style. If you find yourself getting caught up in the wants of your wedding take a minute to remember what ‘s really happening.

Easter is just around the corner so the time is now to start thinking about your décor and what will be in the menu. Here are a few decorating tips that we came across that we thought we would share. Also, Amanda’s grandmothers Carrot Cake recipe that will not disappoint.

Bunny Napkin Fold:

Easter-rabbit-shaped napkins are a festive detail for the holiday table, and they only require a few simple folds. Well-starched crisp cotton or linen will transform into the sturdiest bunnies. Fold napkins the day before your meal so your “warren” is full when guests arrive.
Read more at Marthastewart.com: Bunny Fold for Napkins – Martha Stewart Crafts

Bunny Pennant and Bunny Accents:

Easter-rabbit-shaped napkins are a festive detail for the holiday table, and they only require a few simple folds. Well-starched crisp cotton or linen will transform into the sturdiest bunnies. Fold napkins the day before your meal so your “warren” is full when guests arrive.
Read more at Marthastewart.com: Bunny Fold for Napkins – Martha Stewart Crafts

It’s actually one of the most important things you do leading up to getting married…obtaining a marriage license. Don’t let the marriage license laws of Texas put a dent in your wedding plans. Take action now, be prepared and have all the correct documentation ready. You don’t want to just show up at the County Clerk’s office unprepared.

Here’s what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a Texas marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your wedding date.

ID Requirement:

In Texas, you will need one valid form of id such as drivers license, certified copy of your birth certificate, U. S. passport, military ID card, and your Social Security number.

Residency Requirement:

Neither one of you have to be a resident of Texas. Texas is a great locale for a destination wedding!

Pre-marital Education:

According to current Texas laws, couples are encouraged to attend a premarital education course that covers important marital skills and issues such as conflict management and communication and that is at least eight hours duration. It must be finished during the year preceding your applying for a marriage license. Contact the county clerk for a roster of area course providers.

Aside from the benefit of being better prepared for marriage, TwogetherInTexas.com states “Texas couples who complete a qualifying premarital education workshop will have $60.00 of the marriage license fee waived, as well as the 72-hour waiting period.” Woohoo BONUS!

Previous Marriage:

If divorced within thirty days, Texas requires that you show a certified copy of your divorce decree stating the 30 day waiting period is waived.

Waiting Period in Texas:

The 72 hours (3 days) waiting period in Texas can be waived for active duty military personnel.

Fees and Other Tests:

$60 cash in most counties, so don’t leave home without it! The fees may vary from Texas county to county due to other county record’s fees may apply in addition to this fee.Blood tests or medical examinations are not required in Texas.

Congratulations to you, soon you will be husband and wife and ready for the roller coaster of life together!

Requirements may vary as each county in Texas could have their own requirements. Below are the links for both Dallas and Tarrant county.